Seeing a total solar eclipse is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, for many who have experienced totality, once-in-a-lifetime is simply not enough. They want more, and are willing to go to great lengths often at great expense to repeat the experience. What is it like to experience totality? What is it about the experience that motivates these eclipse chasers? Is there an eclipse chaser personality? Can eclipse chasing actually be described as an addiction? This book describes the people who dedicate their lives to chasing their dream.

Kate Russo is a seasoned eclipse chaser, having experienced nine eclipses in some of the most fascinating and far-flung locations on Earth. She has been hooked ever since her first total eclipse in 1999. Professionally, Kate has worked as a Clinical Psychologist in the UK for the last 14 years. She supports a doctoral-level training programme for clinical psychologists, as well as running a private consultancy practice. In her clinical work and research, she specialises in helping children and adults find meaning in their lives despite living with chronic and life-limiting medical conditions. Kate is a native Australian, but when not standing in the shadow of the Moon, she can generally be found in her adopted home of Belfast, Northern Ireland.

“The author manages to convey the utter glory of being in the path of totality for both herself and other eclipse chasers. … I have seen several total eclipses and understand completely why the author feels the way she does. If you, as I do, find people who do not seem to understand when you try to explain, I suggest you buy this and read passages from it.” (John Chuter, The Journal of the British Astronomical Association, britastro.org, December, 2014)